Answers to Frequently Asked Questions for Businesses
Below are the top eight frequently asked questions for businesses. If your question isn't listed please call Planning and Development Services at 817-748-8069
- Can I have a home-based business in my home? What are the restrictions on it?
- What is required for a Tent Sale or Mass Gathering?
- What is a Specific Use Permit?
- Can I place a temporary banner sign at my business?
- How big can my monument sign or attached sign be?
- Where to I drop of my sign permit application? Where do I pay for and pick up my permit?
- When is a tree permit for tree pruning, alteration or removal required?
- When do I need a solicitor's permit? How do I obtain a solicitor's permit?
Can I have a home-based business in my home? What are the restrictions on it?
Yes, you are permitted to have a home-based business (called a Home Occupation) as long as it meets the definition for a home occupation under the Zoning Ordinance (see Section 4, page 4-9 for the definition). You will have to obtain a permit from the city before you can operate a home-based business. Click here for an application for a home occupation permit.
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What is required for a Tent
Because they are not permitted by right in any zoning district, Tent Sales for the promotion of retail sales and mass gatherings of greater than 1,000 persons require the approval of a Specific Use Permit by City Council. Only two Specific Use Permits for a tent sale can be approved per calendar year per property. SUP applications for tent sales and mass gatherings should be submitted at least 8 weeks prior to the event (refer to the submittal schedule for information on submittal deadlines and meeting dates). Click here for the application for a Specific Use Permit.
Although mass gatherings of less than 1,000 persons do not require a Specific Use Permit, gatherings of more than 300 persons still require registration with the city. Please contact the Department of Public Safety for more information.
What is a Specific Use Permit?
A Specific Use is a permit for an additional use of land or structures not allowed by right in the applicable zoning district and in accordance to the provisions in Section 45 of the Zoning Ordinance. A SUP may be granted if the proposed use is compatible with the surrounding uses, will promote the welfare of the area, is not detrimental to the public health, safety, or general welfare, and conforms in all other respects to applicable regulations and standards. The granting of a SUP does not waive the regulations of the underlying zoning district. Typically, a concept plan is required with this process. SUP applications are considered by the Planning & Zoning Commission and City Council. Click here for an application for a Specific Use Permit. Refer to the submittal schedule for information on submittal deadlines and meeting dates.
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Can I place a temporary banner sign at my business?
New businesses are permitted three (3) banner signs in their first year of occupancy and two (2) per year after that. Banners are limited to a period of fifteen (15) days with at least sixty (60) days between. All banner signs must be permitted through the Planning & Development Services Department. Click here for the temporary banner permit application.
How big can my monument sign or attached sign be?
The permitted size of an attached sign is dependent on the type of street adjacent to the business and the distance of the sign from the edge of that street. Monument sign regulations, including height, setbacks, and number of panels permiteed, are also based on street typology. Review the Sign Ordinance 704-C for further details or contact the Planning & Development Services Department.
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Where do I drop of my sign permit application? Where do I pay for and pick up my permit?
Sign permit applications should be dropped off in the Planning Department suite (
When is a tree permit for tree pruning, alteration or removal required?
Tree Permits are required when work is being performed on trees and related vegetation if the trees and related vegetation are:
- within public right-of-ways,
- on public properties,
- on private properties that do not have occupied permanent structures that are homesteaded,
- on commercial and office zoned properties,
- on properties that have a designated Tree Preservation Area on them, or are
- on agricultural zoned properties outside of 150 feet from the owner's residence or principle structure.
Most Tree Permits are issued to and related to some form of commercial development, residential development, home building or franchise utility maintenance, but there are some developed properties (both residential and commercial) that have platted Tree Preservation Areas and easements that exist on the property. These property owners must be aware that if such an area or easement exists on their property they must first obtain a Tree Permit prior to removing or altering trees within the area. If you are unsure if there is a Tree Preservation Area or easement on your property, please contact the Planning Department at 817-748-8069 for assistance. For more information on tree preservation guidelines and permitting, please visit the Tree Preservation Ordinance page.
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When do I need a solicitor's permit? How do I obtain a solicitor's permit?
Individuals who are making personal contact with residents for the purposes of selling goods or services must have a solicitor's permit. Contact the Department of Public Safety for more information.